Congo, Fetish Songye Statuette

Democratic Republic of Congo
Fetish Songye Statuette
COA included
2nd half of the XXth century
24 x 8 Cm / 0,350 Kg
Wood
Base included

Fetish statuette Nkisi , nkishi (pl. mankishi ) anthropomorphic figure, its arms are positioned around a saliant abdomen. The particularity of these object is mainly their sharp-edged shape, the imposing triangular face with a chin often fading into a beard, the corners of the mouth stretched in a grin, and the attitude focused towards the front of a curved tummy. Brown patina

These protective fetish made for homes are among the most valued objects in Africa. The Nkisi carries out the role of mediator between gods and men. The large copies are the collective propriety of a whole village whereas the smaller ones belong to individuals or families. In the 16th century, the Songyes migrated from the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba. Their society is organized under patriarchal system. Their history is indissociable from the Luba's, with who they are related because of common ancestors.
The Songyes created impressive statues with strong features that are often used during secret ceremonies, covered with accessories like feathers, skin, or a horn carrying magical charge. Very present in their society, the divination enabled them to discover the sorcerers and bring enlightenment to the causes of the misfortunes hitting individuals.